Paddyfote chosen for permanent post

News-Times, The (Danbury, CT)

Published 7:00 pm, Tuesday, January 11, 2005

In what was not a surprise, but was clearly considered a privilege by some board members, the board unanimously selected JeanAnn Paddyfote to become the district's superintendent as of July 1. The former special education director and assistant superintendent is serving her third term as the interim superintendent.

The provisions of her three-year contract include an annual salary of $137,500, with a $6,000 annuity.

Calling Paddyfote one of the finest professionals he has ever encountered, former board chairman Thomas Scozzafava credited Paddyfote as one of the top three people he has known in his 43 years of life.

Scozzafava, who served as chairman last year, described Paddyfote as a woman of integrity who does what needs to be done with diplomacy, compassion and devotion.

In the time since the board appointed her to take over for former Superintendent Raymond Avery in 2002, Paddyfote has helped maneuver the school system through adversity so it could meet its commitments to this town's children, he said. At times, he felt Paddyfote was too good for this town.

"We're damn lucky to have her," he said.

"Dr. Paddyfote is considered a well-respected colleague of staff and board alike," said the board's prepared statement. "A tireless worker, committed to children, Dr. Paddyfote's integrity and work ethic has benefited our community consistently since the first year of her employment, 25 years ago. She has a reputation for being responsive and fair to parents and guardians as they navigate the educational waters for their children's diverse needs."

Board chairwoman Wendy Faulenbach said Paddyfote's appointment was a well-considered choice, and without spending the estimated $23,000 to $45,000 that it would have cost for a superintendent search, the board was confident it had the right candidate to do the job that it needs to have done in this system.

Over her career in New Milford, Paddyfote has earned the respect of the faculty, board and community for her "utmost professionalism and approachability," Faulenbach said.

"This is an appropriate move for this board and the community," Faulenbach said. "It has been a job well done."